There are many misconceptions on the regulations, laws, and requirements of battery trays. To help clear up some of those misconceptions, let’s break down some of the confusing jargon, and help give you a clear understanding of what is expected.

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Coast Guard regulation states that a battery tray must not allow any movement of more than an inch in any direction when force of up to 90 pounds, or twice the weight of the battery, (whichever is lighter) is applied. There are timed amounts of pressure that are required to test the battery tray in a given direction. They are as follows:

Vertically – the given amount of pressure for one minute.

Horizontally and parallel to the boats center line – the given amount of pressure for one minute in both directions.

Horizontally and perpendicular to the boats center line – the given amount of pressure for one minute on both the starboard and port sides.

When choosing a location for the battery tray, you must be aware that the tray and battery must not be directly above or below a fuel tank, filter, or fuel line. A ventilation area must be permitted to allow the discharge of the hydrogen gas released by the battery. The battery must also be held in a liquid tight container to retain any normal spillage or boil over from the battery.

A common misconception regarding the trays is that it must hold a box that contains the battery, however, that is not always the case. Any kind of box, construction, containment device that meets the requirements listed above will be adequate. Iboats.com has a wide array of battery trays that can fit your needs. If you have questions, call our customer support team at 1-800-914-1123.